Specialist
Counselling.

Leaving Faith

Leaving one’s religion can be one of the hardest things to do. All of the old certainties no longer apply and there is suddenly no guidance about how to live one’s life. People may have left their community behind, along with friends and even family; and they may be isolated without their support network. Some may have even been ostracised by those closest to them. It can be difficult to know whom to turn to and the majority of therapists are not educated, nor experienced, or qualified to work in this specialist area. 

Vicky has worked with people from a variety of religions who have left their faith; some of which were defined as a cult. The devastation this causes can not be under-estimated, people can feel stripped of their identity and truly struggle to trust others, including the therapist. Building trust in a therapeutic relationship which does not push any religion nor agenda can be vital in helping the individual to discover their new identity and moral code. Vicky does not subscribe to any religion but refers to Buddhist strategies such as mindfulness to help people manage their unhelpful thoughts and out-dated problematic beliefs. Mindfulness has been shown to enhance the positive effects of CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and individuals are encouraged to develop their own perspectives on life, whether that be spiritual or not. 

Vicky is studying PhD in mental health after leaving religion with London South Bank University and is fast becoming an expert in this field.

Children & Neurodivergence (ADHD & Autism)

Vicky has good experience of working with neurodivergence and will make recommendations as to the most effective intervention. For example, some children benefit from a parent being in the therapy to avoid being the focus (which can reduce anxiety) whereas other children benefit from self-help material; pictures and diagrams. General counselling can be ineffective if the child is uncomfortable and sees themselves as a problem and this needs to be an important consideration throughout the work. Equally, parents may benefit from some advice as to how to manage meltdowns, sensory issues and behavioural difficulties. Issues such as demand avoidance require alternative parenting techniques and parents can feel alone and lost as to how to help their child. Every child and family are different and therefore require an individualised approach which fits with their family and lifestyle.

Additionally, as a parent of an autistic child with ADHD, and having worked at CAMHS (Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services) Vicky can advise regarding school refusal, school-based anxiety, EHCPs (Educational Health Care Plans) and SEN (Special Needs) Placements.